Jarryn Geary will captain St Kilda for a third straight season as part of a five-man leadership group.

Gun midfielder Seb Ross was named vice captain after becoming one of the Saints’ on-field generals over the past two seasons.

Powerhouse forward Tim Membrey and influential off-season acquisition Dan Hannebery were included in the new-look group, with Dylan Roberton also included as he returns from injury.

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Senior Coach Alan Richardson said Geary had grown into a standout leader who commanded respect from his teammates.

“Gears has great balance in his leadership,” Richardson said.

“He is able to be really challenging of the group and at the same time be very supportive of his teammates.

I haven’t seen any player in my time in coaching who so regularly sacrifices himself for the team."

“On game day, and at training he sets the standard for the way in which we want to play and train.

“We’ve brought in a lot of experienced coaches to our football department, and one of the most consistent early impressions has been how strong a leader he is.”

Richardson also praised the impact of the new members of the five-man leadership group.

“Tim has been particularly impressive in how he has grown as a leader of our footy club,” Richardson said.

He represents an important age bracket of players who are hungry to take the next step and build a solid foundation for what we as a team wish to stand for."

“Dan on the other hand is an extremely experienced leader who has had immediate impact since joining us late last year. 

"Having a player with such strong football knowledge, who is also so generous in the time he gives to his teammates, is a real asset to the football club.

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Richardson acknowledged the work of both Jack Newnes and Jack Steven, both of whom he believes will still play vital roles in building and maintaining the culture and standards set by the team.

“Jack and Jack lead through their actions both on and off the field,” Richardson said.

“While they will not play an official leadership role this year, their influence on the group is still really strong and I have no doubt that will continue.”